Graduate Management Programme – McDonald’s
£32,000 – £39,200 total earning potential
Working Pattern Required - Full-Time | Fully flexible across weekdays, weekends, early mornings, and late evenings | Immediate start available
Location Bramley, Leeds; Rooley Lane, Bradford; Ingleby Road, Bradford
Graduate Role. Global Brand. Real Impact.
Looking to kickstart your career with a world-renowned brand that opens doors to real opportunities?
McDonald’s is launching its Graduate Management Programme, designed to develop the next generation of leaders – both in-restaurant and beyond.
This is more than just a fast-paced management role – it’s your springboard into long-term management career opportunities, including paths into HR, Marketing, Finance, Operations, and more at Head Office, once you’ve mastered the operational core.
Why this Graduate Programme?
Our 2 year structured programme starts is bespoke to each candidate with immersive, hands-on leadership training in our restaurant operations.
You’ll learn how to lead teams, drive results, and deliver exceptional customer experiences – gaining real commercial insight every step of the way.
Once proven, your pathway can open into corporate roles at McDonald’s UK Head Office, fully supported by mentorship, accredited apprenticeships, and a tailored development plan.
What You’ll Be Doing (Years 0–2)
As a Graduate Assistant Manager, you’ll:
* Coach, support and lead team members to deliver outstanding customer service
* Own key performance areas: from sales and profitability to labour and stock control
* Get stuck in during peak times – leading by example
* Ensure your team is growing, motivated, and confident
* Gain a deep understanding of restaurant P&L, health and safety, and team development
Career Progression Pathway
* 0–18 Months: Second Assistant Manager
* 18–36 Months: First Assistant Manager
* Post-36 Months: Transition Pathways into McDonald’s UK Head Office (e.g., Operations Consultant, People Partner, L&D, Marketing Associate)
Want to stay in Operations long term? That’s great too – the next step is Business Manager, overseeing your own restaurant.
What You’ll Get
* £32,000 starting salary, rising with progression
* Up to £7,200 annual KPI bonus
* Up to 6 weeks’ paid holiday
* Meal allowance + discounts on top retail/online brands
* Pension scheme
* Fast-track progression into Head Office opportunities
* A leadership career that starts on the shop floor – but can go anywhere
Is This Right for You?
We’re looking for graduates who are:
* 2+ years experience fast-paced hospitality/retail environment
* Ambitious and serious about career development
* Flexible and open to shift-based work (including evenings and weekends)
* Passionate about people, service, and results
* Clear communicators and natural leaders
* Ready to learn the business from the ground up before moving into strategic roles
What’s the Application Process?
We run a two-stage process to make sure we’re the right fit – for you, and for us:
1. Interview + Behind-the-Scenes Tour
2. Meet Tom, our Learning & Development Manager, and get a feel for our operations in action.
3. Shadow & Final Interview
4. Join a current Shift Manager on the shop floor, then sit down with Saj (Restaurant Owner) for your final interview and development chat.
Ready to Launch Your Leadership Career?
This isn’t your average graduate scheme. It’s an opportunity to learn how a world-class business runs, make an impact early, and prepare for future corporate leadership roles in a global organisation.
Apply now and start your McDonald’s leadership journey.
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